Bridging differences between SDF and Turkey not impossible, Jeffrey to North Press

QAMISHLI, Syria (North Press) – The US can play a significant role in bridging differences in Syria’s north, the former US Special Envoy for Syria, James Jeffrey, said referring to Turkey and the Syrian Democratic Force (SDF).

“It is possible that US will have to play a significant role because we see that the other major actor of course is Turkey which occupies a broad swath territory in northwest and some territory now in northeast,” Jeffery added.

In an exclusive interview with North Press, Jeffery said, “The Turks then have to reconcile with themselves to be sure that PKK which is the Syrian Democratic Forces leadership, is being in a way the partner. That’s not impossible but it will be difficult.”

“The US sponsored talks between the civilian wing of SDF and ENKS which is a Kurdish part of the overall Syrian opposition a Kurdish supported by the Iraqi Kurds and also by Turkey.”

“Turkey had a peace ceasefire with PKK. Turkey dealt with the political leadership of the YPG and PYD in Syria until 2015,” he noted.

He added saying, “So it is possible this can happen again which will be a very good development.”

As for the US withdrawal from northeastern Syria, Jeffery noted, “After Afghanistan, it will be very unlikely that the US will withdraw from any place unless there is a very clear evidence that we have succeeded fully, and this is not the case now in Syria. I am sure the troops will stay.”

The US troops have a combat mission to fight ISIS. They are authorized by US Congress. And that’s the only legal authorization to conduct combat operations other than itself-defense, Mr. Jeffrey said.